SOUTHEND United goalkeeper Steve Mildenhall wants his display in last night's FA Cup success over AFC Telford to be a sign of things to come.

The Shrimpers advanced to the second round of the competition with a 2-0 triumph over their Blue Square North visitors.

But the game was much tougher than the score-line suggests and Mildenhall was forced to pull off some fine saves to stop his side suffering a shock defeat.

“I’m pleased with how things went out there and fair play to AFC Telford because they really had a go at us,” said the ‘keeper who joined Southend on a free transfer from Yeovil Town during the summer.

“I had to make a few saves and it was nice to keep a clean sheet. It’'s great to be back playing and to be fit again after the problems with my ankle.

“Now I want to carry on like this but this is a good win for all of us.”

Prior to last night’s win, Mildenhall had endured a miserable start to life with Southend.

He failed to impress during his first few appearances before picking up an ankle injury.

That saw him lose his place to the on-loan Adam Federici but Mildenhall has now proved his worth and confirmed his man of the match display had been good for his confidence.

“Of course it helps,” he said.

“It has been a little it stop-start for me since joining but fair play to Adam because he’s been superb since coming in.

“I feel fit now though and I was also pleased with how I did in the first game with Telford too.

“The team are on a great run and of course I want to be a part of that.”

After Mildenhall’s heroics Southend scored twice in five second half minutes to make sure of the win.

Simon Francis opened the scoring on his 100th appearance for the Shrimpers before James Walker curled home an impressive long range shot.

That pleased manager Steve Tilson but he was quick to point out how his side had been forced to work hard for their win.

“Telford are a strong side and they have shown that over the two games we’ve had with them,” said the Blues boss.

“Mildy has had to make some fine saves but we've got there in the end to get through to the next round which is what mattered the most.”